Cardiac transplantation.

Cardiac transplantation has proven to be an effective and life-saving option for those patients with congestive heart failure who deteriorate despite maximal medical management. The recipients have been able to return to life as productive citizens with improved quality as well as quantity of life. Advances in assist-device technology will mean that more patients will survive until donor hearts become available and ultimately may supplement the organ supply by serving as an alternative to transplant in some patients.